The candidates are all involved in their communities, either by supporting their children’s schools or their spouse’s unit. Many have been through five or more deployments and multiple PCS moves.

Voting can be done online at https://msoy.militaryspouse.com/vote/ and is open to anyone, military or not. Select a base under the “Choose a Duty Station” tab at the top of the page or search for those nominated to find candidates.

Profiles for each candidate are also available online to help supplement your vote.

Only one vote is allowed per calendar day.

Each profile answers questions like “what is the biggest challenge military challenges face?”

Zawistowski said in her profile that 15 years as a military spouse has taught her patience, but she has noticed a lack of bonding between spouses during more peaceful times.

“You can live in a military community and never even know anyone around you,” Zawistowski wrote.

Baumgarten said in her profile she’s noticed how social media substitutes real relationships and connections for too many military spouses.